South Korea has become a popular destination for tourists, students, and business travellers. Its fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern technology offers a unique experience for all types of visitors. In order to enter the country, most nationalities require a visa. One option is the South Korea Electronic Visa (Evisa), an online visa application system that simplifies the process and makes it more convenient for travellers. In this article, I will walk you through the steps to apply for a South Korea Evisa and offer helpful tips to ensure a successful application.
The South Korean Evisa is an electronic visa linked to your passport. It is an alternative to the traditional paper visa and is designed to make the application process faster and easier. The Evisa system is available to citizens of select countries, with plans to expand to more nationalities. The Evisa is suitable for short-term visits, such as tourism, business, or family visits.
Before you start your application, you must understand the requirements, visa types, duration, process time, and cost associated with the South Korean Evisa. I will provide a comprehensive overview of these aspects in the following sections, ensuring you are well-prepared for your application journey.
Check if your country supports South Korea Evisa or Visa or Visa on Arrival
| Afghanistan | visa required |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Angola | visa on arrival |
| Bahrain | visa on arrival |
| Benin | e-visa |
| Bhutan | visa required |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa required |
| Cambodia | visa on arrival |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival |
| Central African Republic | visa required |
| Chad | visa required |
| China | visa required |
| Comoros | visa on arrival |
| Congo | visa required |
| Cuba | visa required |
| Djibouti | e-visa |
| Dominican Republic | visa free |
| DR Congo | visa required |
| Egypt | visa on arrival |
| Equatorial Guinea | visa required |
| Eritrea | visa required |
| Ethiopia | visa on arrival |
| Gabon | visa on arrival |
| Ghana | visa required |
| Guinea | e-visa |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival |
| India | e-visa |
| Iran | e-visa |
| Iraq | visa required |
| Ireland | visa free |
| Ivory Coast | e-visa |
| Jamaica | e-visa |
| Jordan | visa on arrival |
| Kenya | visa on arrival |
| Kuwait | e-visa |
| Lebanon | visa on arrival |
| Liberia | visa required |
| Libya | visa required |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival |
| Malawi | visa on arrival |
| Maldives | visa on arrival |
| Mali | visa required |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mozambique | visa required |
| Myanmar | visa required |
| Namibia | visa on arrival |
| Nauru | visa required |
| Nepal | visa on arrival |
| Niger | visa required |
| Nigeria | visa on arrival |
| North Korea | visa required |
| Pakistan | visa on arrival |
| Palau | visa on arrival |
| Palestine | visa free |
| Papua New Guinea | visa on arrival |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival |
| Samoa | visa on arrival |
| Saudi Arabia | e-visa |
| Sierra Leone | visa on arrival |
| Somalia | visa on arrival |
| South Sudan | e-visa |
| Sudan | visa required |
| Syria | visa required |
| Tajikistan | visa on arrival |
| Tanzania | visa on arrival |
| Togo | visa on arrival |
| Tonga | visa on arrival |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival |
| Uganda | visa on arrival |
| United States | e-visa |
| Yemen | visa required |
| Zambia | visa on arrival |
| Zimbabwe | visa on arrival |
South Korea Evisa Requirements
Before applying for a South Korea Evisa, you must determine if you meet the eligibility criteria. The requirements vary based on the purpose of your visit and your nationality. However, some general conditions apply to all applicants:
- A valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from entry into South Korea.
- A recent passport-sized photo: The photo should be in colour and taken against a white background. It should be at most six months and accurately reflect your appearance.
- Proof of onward travel: You must provide evidence of your return or onward travel arrangements, such as a confirmed flight reservation.
- Proof of accommodation: You must submit a booking confirmation from a hotel or other lodging in South Korea.
- Proof of financial means: You must show sufficient funds to cover your expenses in South Korea. This can be in bank statements or a letter from your employer confirming your salary.
In addition to these general requirements, you may need to provide additional documentation depending on your visa type.
Understanding the South Korea Evisa Types and Duration
Several types of South Korea Evisas are available, each serving a specific purpose. The duration of your visa will depend on the kind of Evisa you apply for. Some of the most common Evisa types include:
- Tourist Evisa: This visa is for those visiting South Korea for tourism purposes. It is generally valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on your nationality.
- Business Evisa: If you travel to South Korea for business meetings, conferences, or other work-related activities, you will need a business Evisa. This visa typically allows for a stay of up to 90 days.
- Transit Evisa: If you have a layover in South Korea en route to another destination, you may need a transit Evisa. This visa usually permits a stay of up to 72 hours.
Be sure to choose the appropriate Evisa type based on your travel purpose, as applying for the wrong type can result in your application being denied.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for South Korea Evisa
Now that you understand the requirements and visa types, it is time to learn how to apply for a South Korean Evisa. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official South Korea Evisa website: Go to the South Korean government’s official Evisa portal to start your application. Ensure you are on an authentic site to avoid scams or fraudulent service providers.
- Create an account: Register for an account using your email address and a secure password. You will receive a confirmation email with a link to activate your account.
- Choose your visa type: Once logged in, select the appropriate Evisa type based on your travel purpose.
- Complete the application form: Fill out the online form with accurate and up-to-date information. Double-check all entries, as incorrect information may delay or deny your visa.
- Upload required documents: Scan and upload all the necessary documents, ensuring they meet the specified criteria.
- Pay the visa fee: Pay the Evisa application fee using a credit or debit card. The price varies depending on your nationality and visa type.
- Please submit your application: Review it once, then submit it for processing.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number. You can use this number to monitor the status of your application on the Evisa website.
South Korea Evisa Process Time
The processing time for a South Korean Evisa varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Generally, processing times range from 3 to 10 working days. However, applying well before your travel date is essential, as unforeseen delays may occur. Additionally, some nationalities may require additional security checks, which can prolong the processing time.
If your application is approved, you will receive an email with your Evisa attached as a PDF file. You must print this document and carry it when travelling to South Korea. Immigration officers will verify the Evisa upon your arrival.
South Korea Evisa Cost
The cost of a South Korean Evisa depends on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. Fees generally range from $30 to $150. It is important to note that the Evisa application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you decide to cancel your trip.
How to Get South Korea Evisa: Online vs In-Person Application
While the Evisa system offers a convenient online application process, some applicants may still prefer the traditional in-person application. This section will compare the online Evisa application with the in-person function.
Online Application: The South Korea Evisa system allows you to apply from the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate in person. The online process is typically faster and more efficient, as you can submit your application and monitor its status through the website. The Evisa system is also available 24/7, providing greater flexibility when applying.
In-Person Application: Applying for a South Korean visa in person requires visiting the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate. This process can be more time-consuming and tedious, as you must schedule an appointment, travel to the embassy, and potentially wait in long lines. Additionally, the in-person application process may be subject to limited operating hours and public holidays.
The online Evisa system is the more convenient and efficient option for most applicants. However, the in-person application process remains available if you cannot apply online due to technical issues or other concerns.
Tips for a Successful South Korea Evisa Application
To increase your chances of a successful South Korea Evisa application, keep these tips in mind:
- Apply early: Give yourself ample time before your trip to complete the application process and account for potential delays.
- Ensure your passport is valid: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from entering South Korea.
- Choose the correct visa type: Apply for the appropriate Evisa based on your travel purpose.
- Double-check your application: Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Prepare all required documents: Gather and upload all necessary documents per the specified criteria.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the South Korea Evisa Application Process
To help avoid delays or denial of your South Korea Evisa, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Submitting an incomplete application: Ensure you have completed all sections of the application form and uploaded all required documents.
- Providing incorrect or outdated information: Double-check all entries in your application to ensure they are accurate and current.
- Applying with an invalid passport: Verify that your passport is valid for at least six months after entering South Korea.
- Choosing the wrong visa type: Apply for the correct Evisa based on your travel purpose.
- Not paying the application fee: Remember to pay the Evisa application fee, as your application will not be processed without it.
Read: How to apply and get South Sudan eVisa
Applying for a South Korea Evisa may seem daunting initially, but with this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools and knowledge to navigate the process quickly. By understanding the requirements, choosing the appropriate visa type, and following the step-by-step application process, you can simplify your Evisa journey and focus on planning your exciting trip to South Korea. Remember to apply early, double-check your application, and avoid common mistakes to ensure a successful visa outcome. With your South Korea Evisa in hand, you will be ready to explore the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and endless opportunities this beautiful country offers.